24 часа

Bulgaria‘s Political Stalemate: A Déjà Vu of Old Arguments

In a familiar turn of events, Bulgaria’s political parties have resorted to the same arguments that stalled negotiations last year. One side insists the issue is personal, while the other maintains it’s about an agreement. This political Groundhog Day has left observers wondering if a breakthrough is possible.

Political scientist Professor Rumyana Kolarova, speaking on BTV, suggested a potential compromise: a deal could be struck where Tsvetan Tsvetanov is not elected prosecutor in exchange for Rosen Plevneliev becoming prime minister. However, Kolarova herself acknowledged that the situation is fluid and unpredictable.

GERB-SDS announced they were ending coalition talks after DBC was reported to oppose Plevneliev’s candidacy for prime minister. But Kolarova questioned whether the parties are truly seeking a compromise. "Gerb wants recognition of Plevneliev as a legitimate prime minister in exchange for stepping back on Tsvetanov," she said.

Professor Maria Pirgova urged parties to consider the interests of the state and the people, not just their own. "None of these parties are connected to industry, business, citizens, education, or reforms. They have no set programmatic goals," she said, adding that Bulgaria needs effective governance, not political infighting.

Meanwhile, Associate Professor Daniel Smilov pointed out the suspicious timing of the negotiations. After a month and a half with no talks, some progress was made just before the holidays, only to collapse on the first working day afterward. Smilov believes this suggests plans for an April election, a scenario he thinks benefits no one.

As Bulgaria’s political landscape remains in flux, one thing is clear: the country needs a functional government, and the people deserve better than a repeat of last year’s stalemate.

Breaking News: GERB-SDS Terminates Coalition Talks, Blames Democratic Bulgaria

In a sudden turn of events, GERB-SDS has decided to terminate coalition talks to form a new government. The party announced its decision in a statement released to the media today.

"The negotiations with ‘Democratic Bulgaria’ following the general elections have not yielded a consensus on the composition of the future government and the nominee for the Prime Minister‘s position," the statement read. This conclusion was drawn from the latest meeting of negotiating teams from GERB-SDS, Democratic Bulgaria, BSP – United Left, and ITN held at the National Assembly.

GERB-SDS initially nominated Boyko Borisov as their candidate for Prime Minister, but this was rejected by Democratic Bulgaria. In response, GERB-SDS presented an alternative candidate, Rosen Plevneliev. However, Democratic Bulgaria categorically rejected this nomination as well, leading GERB-SDS to walk away from the talks.

Despite the breakdown in negotiations, GERB-SDS expressed gratitude to the teams from BSP – United Left and ITN for their participation in the talks and praised their constructive approach.

The prospects of a coalition government between the four parties seemed promising just two months ago when the 51st National Assembly first convened. In an unexpected move on the second day of the new year, GERB invited the three potential partner parties for a closed-door meeting at the National Assembly to discuss a joint governing strategy. Talks for a coalition government resumed on January 4.

The failure to reach an agreement comes as a significant setback in the formation of a new government following the April elections. As the political drama unfolds, all eyes are on the next move from each party involved.

Bulgarian Composer Alexander Sailevich’s Condition Critical After Gas Explosion

Bulgarian composer Alexander Sailevich remains in critical condition following a gas explosion at his home in the capital’s Lозенец neighborhood. The incident occurred last night, leaving the 66-year-old musician with severe and extensive burns, including to his upper respiratory tract.

Sailevich, a prominent figure in Bulgarian classical music, is currently being treated in the intensive care unit at Vladimir vom Warszewitz Military Medical Academy, also known as "Пирогов". Medical staff has revealed that once his condition stabilizes, he will undergo necessary surgical procedures.

Fans and fellow musicians continue to express their support and concern for Sailevich’s recovery. The cause of the explosion is still under investigation by local authorities.

Bulgarian Political Parties Engage in Crucial Talks for a Coalition Government

In a significant development, negotiation teams from GERB-SDF, "Democratic Bulgaria," BSP-"For the Students," and ITN held a meeting today at the National Assembly. This information was made public via the official Facebook pages of the respective political parties.

"Work continues on formulating the points in the agreement for governance and the mechanisms for decision-making," one party stated in a post.

The talks, which took place behind closed doors, were facilitated by GERB, who invited the three potential coalition partners – DB, BSP, and ITN – soon after the elections, as announced by Boyko Borisov.

During the discussion, proposals from each party on the management agreement were deliberated. These proposals included defining priorities for the incoming government and establishing mechanisms for decision-making by the future ruling majority, as reported by GERB.

Title: Bulgaria‘s Hospitality Industry Faces 20% VAT Hike, Warns Association Chair

Representatives of Bulgaria’s hospitality sector have expressed concern over the government’s plans to increase Value Added Tax (VAT) to 20% next year, potentially driving up costs and forcing businesses to pass them on to consumers.

Richard Alibev, Chair of the Association of Establishments, told NOVA BG that the situation is far from ideal, stating that parties that committed to extending low VAT rates have not yet lived up to their promises. He believes that if these parties do not act soon, prices in establishments could rise by 7% to 10% within a week.

Alibev emphasized the need to maintain the current 9% VAT rate for the hospitality sector, extend the zero VAT rate on bread until the end of 2025, and reinstate energy subsidies. He warned that any increase in VAT for the sector would be detrimental, given other inflating factors like energy prices, salaries, and potential alcohol and tobacco tax hikes.

Currently, the average salary for a waiter in Sofia is around 1,000-1,500 BGN, excluding tips. Alibev highlighted the importance of legalizing and taxing tips, ensuring fairness and transparency in the industry.

In an effort to maintain a responsible atmosphere, Alibev reminded the public that establishments do not allow minors under 18 to consume alcohol or smoke.

As the situation unfolds, hospitality businesses and consumers alike await decisive action from policymakers to mitigate the potential impacts of the upcoming VAT hike.

Title: Tragic Hunting Incident: Police Officer Shot Dead in Vidin, Bulgaria

A tragic hunting incident occurred in the Vidin region of Bulgaria today, resulting in the fatal shooting of a police officer. The 43-year-old victim was pronounced dead at the scene. A 48-year-old member of the hunting party has been detained as the prime suspect, with a criminal investigation underway.

The incident transpired in the vicinity of the Vidin village of Golемanovo. As the hunting party traversed the area, a stray bullet intended for large game struck the officer fatally. The group swiftly contacted emergency services, but medical teams arrived to find the officer deceased. Police rapidly cordoned off the area and initiated an investigation to establish the full details of the unfortunate event.

This devastating incident underscores the importance of safety protocols and responsible gun handling, especially in outdoor activities such as hunting. Our thoughts are with the family and colleagues of the deceased officer. The Bulgarian authorities are yet to release further details, and this story is developing.

Title: Bulgarian Midwives’ Dance with Newborns Sparks Social Media Backlash

Two midwives from Sliven, Bulgaria, have found themselves in hot water after a video surfaced online showing them dancing and singing with newborn babies, causing an uproar on social media. The video, which was quickly removed by the midwives, depicted the two healthcare professionals joyfully holding the infants and performing choreographed routines.

Despite their best efforts, the offending clip has circulated widely across social media platforms, with netizens expressing outrage and concern over the incident. In response, the director of the healthcare facility has confirmed that one of the midwives has already tendered her resignation, with the other set to follow suit on Monday. An investigation has been launched to look into the matter.

This unusual turn of events has raised questions about professional conduct and patient care in institutions that deal with the most vulnerable members of society.

Title: Brutal End for Sofia Woman: Paramedics Struggled to Stabilize Her After Domestic Attack

A 40-year-old Sofia woman, identified as Evgenia Belovska, lost her life following a brutal domestic attack in a Bulgarian capital hospital on Thursday night. Belovska was severely beaten by her live-in partner, Araf Sadula, a Greek national, who has since been charged with murder.

Belovska’s sister, Stefka Belovska, provided grim details to Nova TV: "She had a iron rod stuck in her head. Two holes in the skull and a cable tying her head to the bed frame for stabilization – they said they had to do that because she had two broken and dislocated vertebrae, C4, and C5."

Evgenia Belovska, a vibrant soul trapped in a lifeless body, was unable to perform basic life functions such as breathing, eating, and drinking, her sister mournfully recalled.

The couple met in the Greek city of Xanthi, where Belovska worked as a waitress. Sadula, who is currently in Greek custody, faces five charges, including two counts of attempted murder and causing severe bodily harm.

The gruesome details of this tragic incident have shocked Bulgarians and emphasized the urgent need for stricter domestic violence laws and increased support for victims. We urge anyone caught in a similarly abusive situation to seek help through local hotlines and support services.

Headline: Bulgarian Dance Legend, Dimitar Manov, Passes Away

Bulgarian dance icon Dimitar Manov, known for his vibrant choreography and vast contributions to the country’s cultural scene, has left his last bow, as reported by BNT. The renowned choreographer and dance teacher was a long-standing soloist with the "Philip Kutev" ensemble, a mentor at the Sofia State Dance School, and the chief choreographer for the "Builders of Peace" and Bulgaria“>Bulgarian Army ensembles.

Manov was also the founder and artistic director of the "Tumburi" ensemble in the United States, reflecting his international influence in the dance world. His departure marks a significant loss for Bulgaria’s cultural heritage and the global dance community.

Tributes to the late choreographer will be held on January 5, 2025, at the capillary church "Saints Cyril and Methodius" in the capital city, Sofia. The service will commence at 13:00 (local time).

Rest in peace, Dimitar Manov – a legend, a pioneer, and a beacon of Bulgarian dance.